Edge and corner for a structure constructed from blow-molded plastic

ABSTRACT

A structure constructed from plastic may include one or more reinforcing portions that are sized and configured to prevent damage to the structure. For example, the structure may be a table top constructed from blow-molded plastic and the table top may include a body with one or more corners. The corners may include an interior portion and an exterior portion, and reinforcement portions may be sized and configured to help prevent damage to the corners of the table top. In addition, one or more depressions may be at least partially disposed within the reinforcement portions, if desired. The reinforcement portions, for example, may include one or more inwardly and/or outwardly extending portions.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/351,827, filed on Jan. 10, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,033,228; whichis a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/051,933, filedon Feb. 4, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,475,643. U.S. Pat. No. 7,475,643 isa continuation-in-part of U.S. design patent application Ser. No.29/198,778, filed on Feb. 4, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. D509,386; acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/409,273,filed on Apr. 8, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,111,563; and claims priorityto and the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No.60/541,639, entitled CORNER FOR A TABLE TOP, which was filed on Feb. 4,2004. These applications and patents are incorporated by reference intheir entireties.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention is generally related to structures constructedfrom plastic and, in particular, to structures constructed fromblow-molded plastic.

2. Description of Related Art

Many different types of tables are well known and used for a variety ofdifferent purposes. For example, conventional tables may include legsthat are pivotally attached to the table top and the legs may be movablebetween a use position in which the legs extend outwardly from the tabletop and a storage position in which the legs are folded against thetable top. Large, portable tables with folding legs are often referredto as “banquet tables” and these tables are often used in assemblyhalls, banquet halls, convention centers, hotels, schools, churches andother locations where large groups of people meet. Because these tablesare portable, the tables can be positioned in an assortment of differentconfigurations and used in a variety of settings. When the tables are nolonger needed, the tables can be moved or stored.

Banquet tables are often used by various organizations and groupsbecause they allow effective and efficient use of space. For example,banquet tables may be used in large multi-purpose areas such as schoolgymnasiums, meeting halls and hotel conference rooms to allow groups ofpeople to meet. After the meetings are completed, the tables can befolded into the storage position and stowed in a relatively small space.This allows the gymnasiums, meeting halls and conference rooms to beused for other purposes. Thus, banquet tables allow groups andorganizations to efficiently use a particular space.

Conventional banquet tables with legs that are foldable between a useposition and a storage position may also be used in a variety of otherlocations. For example, these known tables may provide immediate tablespace and/or workspace in a house, apartment, garage, shed and the like.The foldable legs allow the tables to be conveniently set up, takendown, stored and transported whenever and wherever the user chooses.

It is known to construct conventional banquet tables from relativelyheavy materials such as wood or metal, which makes the tables heavy anddifficult to move. In particular, the table tops of conventional banquettables are often made from fiber board, particle board, or plywood; andthese known table tops may include a plastic or Formica-type surfacelaminated onto the upper surface of the table top to create a workingsurface. Disadvantageously, many of these conventional banquet tablesare not very strong and are unable to support a desired amount ofweight. In order to increase the strength of these tables, thicker andheavier table tops are often used. Unfortunately, the thicker andheavier table tops further increase the weight of the tables. As aresult, many conventional banquet tables with wooden table tops areundesirably heavy, and two or more people are often required to movethese types of tables.

In order to prevent the middle portion of conventional banquet tablesfrom sagging, it is known to attach a metal frame to the bottom surfaceof the wooden table top. These known metal frames often included twoside rails that extended along the longitudinal length of the table topand the metal frames are frequently attached to the table top by aplurality of screws. Disadvantageously, the structural integrity of thetable top may be decreased by the holes created by the plurality ofscrews, and this may allow the table to collapse and fail. In addition,because the screws are typically individually attached to the table top,that may significantly increase the amount of the time required toconstruct the table.

Conventional banquet tables are often six or eight feet in length andtwo or three feet in width. Thus, banquet tables are often difficult tomove because of their large size and inherent bulkiness. In addition, asdiscussed above, these conventional banquet tables are often very heavy.Accordingly, if these unwieldy and heavy conventional tables areinadvertently dropped, tipped over, or mishandled while moving or usingthe tables, then injury could result.

It is known to construct banquet tables from plastic or otherlightweight materials in an attempt to decrease the weight of thetables. Many of these lighter-weight tables, however, lack the strengthand sturdiness of the heavier-weight tables. Thus, many lighter-weighttables require complex support mechanisms and one or more support bracesto increase the strength and sturdiness of the table, which undesirablyincreases the weight and complexity of the tables.

Conventional banquet tables generally include legs that are attached tothe table tops by a number of mechanical fasteners such as screws orbolts, whether the table tops are constructed from wood, plastic ormetal. Disadvantageously, attaching the legs to the table tops by screwsor bolts creates a number of holes in the table tops. As discussedabove, these holes may decrease the structural integrity of the tabletop and may create undesirable stress concentrations in the table top.The holes may also create weakness or failure points that allow thetable to give way and collapse. It is also known to bond a portion ofthe support structure that attaches the table legs to the table top byadhesives such as glue, epoxy resins or other suitable types of bondingagents. The bonding of the table leg support structure to the table top,however, may decrease the structural integrity of the table top.Significantly, if the mechanical fasteners or adhesive connection of thelegs to the table top fails, then the table may collapse. Theseconventional tables may be difficult to fix or repair, especially if theleg support structure of the table top is damaged or pulled away fromthe remaining portion of the table top.

The use of mechanical fasteners to attach the legs to the table topundesirably increases the number of parts required to construct thetable, which may increase the time required to assemble the table. Inaddition, many conventional tables required the legs to be positionedagainst the underside of the table top and then attached to the tabletop by the mechanical fasteners or glue. This increases the difficultyof the manufacturing process because the legs and table top must firstbe held in the desired positions and then the legs must be fastened tothe table top. In particular, if mechanical fasteners are used to attachthe legs to the table top, mating surfaces such as holes in the legs andcorresponding threaded openings in the table top must be carefullyaligned before the legs can be attached to the table top. Accordingly,many conventional tables require one or more persons to hold the legsand table top in the desired locations, and another person to fasten thelegs to the table top. This process is undesirably time consuming andlabor intensive. Alternatively, a single person may be used to attachthe legs to the table top, but this process is difficult to performrapidly and without any errors.

It is also known to use complex attachment mechanisms to facilitateattachment of the legs to the table tops. Disadvantageously, thesecomplex attachment mechanisms are generally heavier, more difficult toinstall, and more expensive. In addition, these complex attachmentmechanisms are often more difficult to use than conventional mechanicalfasteners or adhesives.

These disadvantages are often compounded because conventional tableswith folding legs typically require separate and distinct attachmentmechanisms for attaching each leg or a pair of legs to the table top.That is, because most conventional banquet tables include a leg or apair of legs attached to each end of the table, a number of holes orattachment points are required to attach the legs to the table top.Accordingly, many conventional tables have two or four separate pointsof attachment in order to attach the table legs to the table top. Thus,conventional banquet tables often include a plurality of holes in eachend of the table top, and these holes may undesirably allow the table tofail.

As discussed above, in order to decrease the weight of conventionaltables, table tops can be constructed from light-weight materials.Disadvantageously, these light-weight table tops frequently requirereinforcing members or other structural parts to strengthen the tabletop. These additional parts may increase the strength of the table top,but these additional parts also increase the weight of the table. Theseadditional parts may also increase manufacturing costs and requireadditional time to assemble the table. Furthermore, these additionalparts may have sharp edges that can injure the user's legs, arms orother body parts.

Disadvantageously, conventional tables constructed from light-weightmaterials may be easily damaged. For example, the corners of manyconventional light-weight tables are not very strong and are susceptibleto being dented or smashed. In particular, the corners of these tablemay be easily damaged if the table is dropped or if the corner of thetable is inadvertently struck with another object. The dented or damagedcorners of these conventional table tops are often very difficult orimpossible to repair or replace.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A need therefore exists for a structure that eliminates theabove-described disadvantages and problems.

One aspect is a structure that is constructed from plastic. Desirably,the structure is constructed from blow-molded plastic, but the structuremay also be constructed from other materials and processes such asrotary molding, injection molding and the like. Advantageously, thestructure may include one or more corners and/or edges that areresistant to damage. In particular, the corners and edges may beresistant to damage if, for example, it is dropped, hit or impactedduring manufacturing, shipping or use.

The structure described below and shown in the accompanying figures isan exemplary embodiment of a table and, in particular, the table top ofthe table. It will be appreciated, however, that any suitable type oftable may be used. In addition, it will be appreciated that thestructure does not have to be a table and other suitable types ofstructures may also be used.

Another aspect is a table that may include a table top constructed fromblow-molded plastic. Significantly, if the table top is constructed fromblow-molded plastic, it may be easily formed into any desiredconfiguration, shape, size and design depending, for example, upon theintended use and/or configuration of the table. The blow-molded tabletop may be also generally weather resistant and temperature insensitive,which allows the table to be used in a wide variety of locations andenvironments. In addition, the blow-molded table top may be durable,long-lasting, and it generally does not corrode, rust or otherwisedeteriorate over time. Further, because the blow-molded table top may berelatively strong, it can be used to support a relatively large amountof weight. Significantly, the blow-molded table top may form astructural member of the table and/or a frame or other structure may beused to support the table top.

Advantageously, the blow-molded plastic table top may be relativelystrong because it may include two or more opposing walls or surfacesthat are separated by a given distance. The opposing walls help create ahigh-strength, rigid table top. In addition, because the interiorportion of the table top may be generally hollow, that creates alightweight table top. Thus, the blow-molded table top can be bothlightweight and strong. The blow-molded table top may also belightweight and strong even if the interior portion is filled withmaterials such as foam.

Still another aspect is a table top that may include one or moredepressions, “tack-offs” or “kiss-offs.” The depressions, which canextend from one surface towards another surface, may be desirably sizedand configured to increase the strength and/or rigidity of the tabletop. Preferably, the depressions extend from one surface and contact orengage an opposing surface, but the depressions do not have to contactor engage another surface. If desired, the depressions may be formed inthe bottom surface of the table top so that the depressions aregenerally not visible. The depressions, however, may be formed in thetop surface and/or any other suitable portions of the table top. Forexample, one or more depressions may be formed in the top surface of thetable top and one or more depressions may be formed in the bottomsurface of the table top, and these opposing depressions may begenerally aligned. At least a portion of these opposing depressions maycontact or engage each other, but the opposing depressions do not haveto touch or engage.

Significantly, the blow-molded table top may be quickly and easilyconstructed. Advantageously, the blow-molding process allows theopposing walls, depressions and other desired features to be quickly andeasily formed in the table top. In addition, the blow-molded table topcan be constructed as an integral, one-piece structure to help create astrong and rigid table top, but the table top could also be constructedfrom two or more pieces that are interconnected.

A further aspect is a table top that may be constructed with thin outerwalls, which may decrease the amount of plastic required to constructthe table top. As discussed above, the opposing walls and depressionsmay allow a strong and sturdy table top to be constructed. These andother features may also allow the table top to be constructed withrelatively thin outer walls, which may reduce the amount of plasticrequired to construct the table top. This may save manufacturing costsand reduce the amount of resources required to construct the table top.The thin outer walls may also allow the table top to be cooled morequickly during the manufacturing process, which may allow the table topsto be manufactured more quickly and efficiently.

Additionally, because the table top may be constructed from blow-moldedplastic with thin outer walls, this allows a table with reduced weightto be constructed. Significantly, the lightweight table can be easilytransported, which decreases shipping costs. Additionally, the consumermay appreciate the reduced weight because they can much more easily moveand/or assemble the table.

Another aspect a table top that may include one or more features thatare integrally formed in the table top as part of a unitary, one-piecestructure. Advantageously, this may reduce the number of steps requiredin the manufacturing process, which may reduce the overall cost of thetable. For example, the depressions may be integrally formed in thetable top during the manufacturing process. In addition, one or moremounting portions may be integrally formed in the table top tofacilitate attachment of a frame and/or legs to the table top. Themounting portions may also allow the frame and/or legs to be attached tothe table top without the use of mechanical fasteners such as bolts orscrews.

Yet another aspect is a table top that may include one or moredepressions located in a predetermined pattern to increase the strengthof the table top and/or decrease the amount of plastic used to constructthe table top. Advantageously, if the depressions are placed near eachother, then the table top may be constructed with thinner outer surfacesor walls and the strength of the table top may be increased. Desirably,the locations of the depressions do not vary significantly even whenother features are integrally formed in the table top. Thus, forexample, the depressions are preferably positioned in close proximityand in the same general pattern even around features such as attachmentpoints, edges and other features of the table top. In addition, one ormore depressions may be formed within the various features to maintainthe generally consistent pattern of depressions. Significantly, thegenerally uniform pattern of depressions may allow a table top withhomogeneous characteristics to be constructed. Of course, thedepressions could be positioned in any other suitable locations,designs, patterns, or the like.

Still another aspect is a table top that may include one or more cornerswith increased strength and/or impact resistance. In particular, thecorners of the table top may be constructed to absorb a larger force orimpact than a conventional table top. The corners of the table top mayalso be designed to resiliently and/or elastically deform when struck byanother object and then return to its original configuration when theforce is removed. Thus, the corners may provide greater impactprotection for the table top and help prevent the corners or otherportions of the table top from being damaged.

A still further aspect is a table top that may include a downwardlyextending lip and the inner surface of the lip may include a number ofserrations, notches, ribs, and/or struts that are sized and configuredto increase the strength, rigidity and/or flexibility of the lip.Advantageously, the uneven inner surfaces of the lip may increase thestrength, rigidity and/or flexibility of the table top. In addition, thecorners of the table top may also include one or more serrations,notches, ribs, and/or struts that are sized and configured to increasethe strength, rigidity and/or flexibility of the corners.

Advantageously, the table top may be relatively strong, durable andlight-weight. In addition, the edges and corners of the table top may beimpact resistant and able to absorb a relatively large force withoutdamage. Preferably, the reinforcement portions that strengthen thecorners and edges of the table top are located in the underneath orinner portions of the table top so that the reinforcement portions aregenerally not visible when the table is being used. It will beappreciated, however, that the reinforcement portions can be located inany desired portions of the table top. It will also be appreciated thatthe table top can be formed in various shapes, sizes, configurations anddesigns, which allows the table top to be used in connection with a widevariety of tables such as banquet tables, card tables, personal-sizedtables, round tables, fold-in-half tables, and the like.

Another aspect is a table top that may be constructed from blow-moldedplastic and include one or more reinforcement portions that help preventdamage to the edges and/or corners of the table top. The reinforcementportions may extend inwardly and/or outwardly and the reinforcementportions preferably have a generally elongated configuration such asrectangular, oval or oblong, but the reinforcement portions could haveany desired configuration such as circular or square. In addition, thereinforcement portions may be formed in the underneath or lower portionof the table top and/or in a downwardly lip. Thus, the reinforcementportions may be generally horizontally or vertically positioned, ifdesired. Further, the reinforcement portions may be used to change thewall thickness. For example, the reinforcement portions may increase thewall thickness of the table top.

Advantageously, the reinforcement portions may be integrally formed inthe table top as part of a one-piece structure. The reinforcementportions may also be found in one surface and all or a portion of thereinforcement portion may touch or contact an opposing surface, or thereinforcement portion may be spaced apart from the opposing surface. Inaddition, the edges and/or corners of the table top may include one ormultiple reinforcement portions and the reinforcement portions may bearranged into a predetermined pattern. Significantly, the reinforcementportions may be arranged into different patterns for different portionsof the table top. Further, the reinforcement portions may be used inconnection with one or more depressions or tack-offs, if desired. Forexample, one or more depressions may be at least partially disposedwithin the reinforcement portions and/or one or more depressions may bespaced apart from the reinforcement portions.

These and other aspects, features, and advantages will become more fullyapparent from the following detailed description of preferredembodiments and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The appended drawings contain figures of preferred embodiments tofurther clarify the above and other aspects, advantages and features ofthe present invention. It will be appreciated that these drawings depictonly preferred embodiments of the invention and are not intended tolimits its scope. The invention will be described and explained withadditional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanyingdrawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a bottom view of an exemplary structure illustrating a tabletop for a table, the table top preferably being constructed fromblow-molded plastic;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged, bottom view of a portion of the table top shownin FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged, bottom view of another portion of the table topshown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a side view of the table top shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is an enlarged side view of a portion of the table top shown inFIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a bottom view of another exemplary embodiment of a table top;

FIG. 7 is a side view of the table top shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is an enlarged bottom view of a portion of the table top shown inFIG. 6;

FIG. 9 is an enlarged bottom view of another portion of the table topshown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of another portion ofthe table top shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of another portion ofthe table top shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 12 is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of still anotherportion of the table top shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 13A is a bottom view of yet another exemplary embodiment of a tabletop;

FIG. 13B is a side view of the table top shown in FIG. 13A;

FIG. 13C is an end view of the table top shown in FIG. 13A;

FIG. 14A is a bottom view of still yet another exemplary embodiment of atable top;

FIG. 14B is a side view of the table top shown in FIG. 14A;

FIG. 14C is an end view of the table top shown in FIG. 14A;

FIG. 15A is a bottom view of a further exemplary embodiment of a tabletop;

FIG. 15B is a side view of the table top shown in FIG. 15A;

FIG. 15C is an end view of the table top shown in FIG. 15A;

FIG. 16A is a bottom view of another further exemplary embodiment of atable top;

FIG. 16B is a side view of the table top shown in FIG. 16A;

FIG. 16C is an end view of the table top shown in FIG. 16A;

FIG. 16D is an enlarged bottom view of a portion of the table top shownin FIG. 16A; and

FIG. 16E is an enlarged bottom view of another portion of the table topshown in FIG. 16A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention is generally directed towards structuresconstructed from blow-molded plastic. The principles of the presentinvention, however, are not limited to structures constructed fromblow-molded plastic. It will be understood that, in light of the presentdisclosure, the structures disclosed herein can be successfully used inconnection with other types of processes such as rotary molding,injection molding and the like.

As described in more detail below and as shown in the accompanyingfigures, an exemplary embodiment of the structure may be a table topconstructed from blow-molded plastic. Advantageously, the table top mayhave a variety of suitable configurations and the table top may be usedwith a number of different types of tables. It will be appreciated thatthe structure does not have to be a table top and, in contrast, thestructure could be any appropriate or desired type of structure.

Additionally, to assist in the description of the table top, words suchas top, bottom, front, rear, right, and left are used to describe theaccompanying figures. It will be appreciated, however, that the tabletop can be located in a variety of desired positions—including variousangles, sideways, and even upside down. A detailed description of thetable top now follows.

As shown in FIG. 1, an exemplary embodiment of a table top 2 may beconstructed from blow-molded plastic. Advantageously, as discussed inmore detail below, the corners and/or edges of the table top 2 may besized and configured to help protect the table top from damage. Forexample, the corners and/or edges may be sized and configured to helpprevent damage to the table top 2 if the table top is dropped or struckduring manufacturing, transportation or use of the table.

The table top 2 may be used in connection with a table that is supportedabove a surface by one or more legs or supports. The table top 2 mayinclude an upper surface, a lower surface, a first end, a second end, afront side and a rear side. The upper surface of the table top 2 ispreferably generally planar to create a smooth, flat working surface,but the upper surface could also be textured and have other suitableconfigurations depending, for example, upon the intended use of thetable. The table top 2 may also include an edge that is disposed aboutthe outer perimeter or periphery of the table top. All or a portion ofthe edge may be beveled, sloped or rounded to, for example, increase thecomfort and safety of the user.

The table top 2 may also include a downwardly extending lip 4 that isdisposed near or at the outer portion of the table top. The lip 4preferably extends downwardly beyond the lower surface of the table topand the lip may be aligned with or form a part of the edge of the tabletop. If desired, the lip 4 may be formed along all or a portion of aperimeter of the table top. It will be appreciated that the lip 4 mayalso be spaced inwardly from the edge of the table top 2, if desired.

The table top 2 preferably has a generally rectangular configurationwith rounded corners and slightly rounded edges, as shown in FIG. 1. Thetable top 2 may also have a relatively large size and it may beconfigured for use as a banquet style table. For example, if the tabletop 2 is being used as a banquet style table, it may have a length ofabout five feet (or about sixty inches) and a width of about two andone-half feet (or about thirty inches), but the table top can be largeror smaller. That is, the table top 2 could be six or eight feet inlength, and the table top could be two or three feet in width. Oneskilled in the art will appreciate that the table top 2 can be larger orsmaller according, for example, to the intended use of the table and thetable top may be sized and configured to be used in connection with anysuitable type of tables such as utility tables, conference tables, cardtables, personal-sized tables, fold-in-half tables, and the like.

The table top 2 may also have other suitable shapes and configurationssuch as square, circular, oval, and the like depending, for example,upon the intended use of the table. Also, the corners and edges of thetable top 2 do not have to be rounded and the corners and edges couldhave other desirable configurations.

The table top 2 is preferably constructed from plastic, such as highdensity polyethylene, and the table top is preferably constructed by ablow-molding process because, for example, it allows a strong,lightweight, rigid and sturdy table top to be quickly and easilymanufactured. Advantageously, the blow-molded plastic table top isrelatively lightweight and it may include a hollow interior portion. Thehollow interior portion, however, may be filled with a material, such asfoam, if desired.

The table top 2 is preferably constructed from blow-molded plasticbecause blow-molded plastic table tops are relatively durable, weatherresistant, temperature insensitive, corrosion resistant, rust resistant,and blow-molded plastic generally does not deteriorate over time. Oneskilled in the art, however, will appreciate that the table top 2 doesnot have to be constructed from blow-molded plastic and other suitablematerials could be used to construct the table top—such as other typesof plastics, polymers and synthetic materials. In addition, the tabletop 2 may be constructed from other materials with suitablecharacteristics such as metal, fiberglass, ceramics, graphite and thelike.

The upper surface and the lower surface of the table top 2 arepreferably spaced apart a given distance and these two spaced-apartsurfaces may help create a rigid and strong table top. Preferably, theupper surface and the lower surface are separated by a generallyconstant distance so that the surfaces are generally aligned in parallelplanes, but the upper and lower surfaces could be separated by anysuitable distances. The upper and lower surfaces of the table top mayalso be interconnected by one or more tack-offs, kiss-offs ordepressions 6, which may be sized and configured to further increase thestrength and rigidity of the table top. Advantageously, the depressions6 may be integrally formed as part of a unitary, one-piece table top 2.

The depressions 6 may be located in the lower surface of table top 2,and the depressions are preferably sized and configured to increase thestrength and structural integrity of the table top. The depressions 6preferably extend towards the upper surface of the table top 2, and theends of the depressions may contact or engage the upper surface of thetable top, or the ends of the depressions may be spaced from the uppersurface of the table top. The depressions 6 may cover substantially theentire lower surface of the table top 2, but it will be appreciated thatthe depressions may cover only a portion of the table top.

Additionally, while the depressions 6 are shown and described as beinglocated in the lower portion of the table top 2, it will be appreciatedthat the depressions could be formed in any desired portion of the tabletop. For example, it will be appreciated that one or more depressionsmay be formed in the upper surface of the table top and one or moredepressions may be formed in the lower surface of the table top, andthese opposing depressions may be generally aligned. At least a portionof these opposing depressions may contact or engage each other, but theopposing depressions do not have to touch or engage.

The depressions 6 may be preferably arranged into a predeterminedpattern or array in order to increase the strength and structuralintegrity of the table top 2. In particular, the depressions 6 may bepreferably spaced closely together in a predetermined pattern such thatthe distance between the depressions is reduced. Advantageously,reducing the distance between the depressions 6 create a table top 2with generally uniform characteristics and it may increase thesmoothness of the upper surface of the table top. In addition, reducingthe distance between the depressions 6 may increase the structuralintegrity and strength of the table top 2.

Advantageously, the increased structural integrity and strength of thetable top 2 may allow the outer wall thickness of the table top to bedecreased, which may allow less plastic to be used to construct thetable top 2. Because less plastic may be required to construct the tabletop 2, that may allow the cost of the table to be decreased. Inaddition, the blow-molded table top 2 may cool more quickly during themanufacturing process because of the thinner outer wall. This allows thetable top 2 to be removed from the manufacturing mold more quickly andit may allow the table top to be removed at a higher temperature becauseit dissipates heat much more rapidly. Significantly, because the cycletime required to construct the table top may be decreased, themanufacturing efficiency may be increased.

The depressions 6 may be arranged in a predetermined pattern with agenerally constant and uniform spacing so that the table top 2 hasgenerally uniform characteristics. In particular, the depressions 6 maybe arranged into a uniform pattern across the bottom surface of thetable top 2 so that the strength, structural integrity and/or othercharacteristics of the table top are generally uniform throughout thetable top. Thus, the table top 2 has fewer, if any, weak or unsupportedportions which may decrease the strength and structural integrity of thetable top. Thus, the depressions 6 may be used to create a table top 2with generally uniform characteristics throughout the table top. Ofcourse, depressions 6 need not be arranged in any particular pattern orpredetermined arrangement.

If desired, other features formed in the table top 2 may be sized andconfigured such that they do not significantly disturb or disrupt thedesired pattern of depressions 6. In addition, the depressions 6 may beintegrally formed in the table top as part of a unitary, one-piecestructure.

Additional details regarding the size, shape, and configuration ofdepressions 6 that may be suitable for use in connection with the tabletop 2 are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,069,865, which is incorporated byreference in its entirety. Of course, the depressions 6 may have othersuitable sizes, shapes, and/or configurations and the depressions can bedisposed in any desired portion on a table top 2, but the depressionsare not required.

As discussed above, the table top 2 may include a lip 4 that extendsdownwardly and the lip may be aligned with or form part of the edge ofthe table top. The lip 4 may also be spaced inwardly from the edge ofthe table top 2 and the lip 4 may include an inner surface and a lowersurface. The lip 4 may include a substantially hollow interior portionthat is formed during the blow-molding process as part of an integral,one-piece structure. The lip 4, however, does not have to be part of aunitary table top 2, include a hollow interior portion or be formedduring the blow-molding process. The lip 4 desirably includes agenerally smooth and/or planar surface (such as, surfaces 8, 10, 12, and14 shown in FIG. 1) to facilitate stacking of the tables. However, thelip 4 could have any other suitable shapes and configurations.

The table top 2 may also include one or more corners depending, forexample, upon the particular configuration of the table top. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 1, the table top 2 includes four corners thatare generally aligned with the edges of the table top, but the cornersdo not have to be aligned with the edges of the table top. The cornersmay include an inner surface, a lower surface and a substantially hollowinterior portion that is formed during the blow-molding process as partof an integral, one-piece structure. The corners, however, do not haveto be part of a unitary table top 2, include a hollow interior portionor be formed during the blow-molding process. The lower surfaces of thecorners may be generally smooth and/or planar to facilitate stacking ofthe tables, but the corners could have other suitable shapes orconfigurations.

Advantageously, the lip 4 and/or the corners may include one or morereinforcement portions that are sized and configured to increase thestrength, rigidity and/or flexibility of the lip and/or corners. Forexample, the lip 4 and/or corners may include reinforcement portionsthat consist of a number of serrations, notches, ribs, and/or struts. Inparticular, the lip 4 and/or corners may include a number of notches,indentations, grooves, or other inwardly extending portions to form anuneven or saw-tooth type surface. The lip 4 and/or corners may alsoinclude a number of bumps, humps, protrusions or other outwardlyextending portions to form an uneven or saw-tooth type surface. Ifdesired, the lip 4 and/or corners may include a combination of one ormore inwardly extending portions and one or more outwardly extendingportions to form an uneven or saw-tooth type surface.

Advantageously, the reinforcement portions of the lip 4 and/or cornersmay increase the strength, rigidity and/or flexibility of the cornersand/or lip—which may increase the strength, rigidity and/or flexibilityof the outer portions of the table top 2. For example, the reinforcementportions may allow the outer portions of the table top to absorb moreenergy or larger impacts than the corners and lip of conventionaltables. Additionally, the reinforcement portions may allow the lipand/or corners to absorb more energy without deforming, and the lipand/or corners may flex or deflect more without breaking or permanentlydeforming. Further, the reinforcement portions may allow the lip and/orcorners to be more likely to resiliently return to there originalconfigurations. Thus, the reinforcement portions may create a moredurable and longer-lasting table top 2.

The reinforcement portions may also include one or more ribs that mayincrease the wall thickness of the corners and/or the lip.Advantageously, the ribs may also increase the strength, rigidity,and/or flexibility of the outer portions of the table top. The ribs mayextend from the lower surface of the table top to the lower surface ofthe corners and/or lip, and the ribs are preferably generally verticallyaligned. However, the ribs may have any other suitable arrangement andconfiguration.

It will be appreciated that the reinforcement portions may include oneor more ribs, inwardly extending portions and/or the outwardly extendingportions. Further, it will be appreciated that the inwardly extendingportions, the outwardly extending portions, and/or the ribs may belocated in various suitable portions of the table top 2, such as theouter surfaces of the lip 4, the edge of the table top and/or the lowersurface of the corners and/or the lip. It will be understood, however,that a table top 2 does not require that the reinforcement portions beformed in any particular portions of the table top.

Advantageously, the reinforcement portions may be sized and configuredto work in connection with the depressions 6. For example, thereinforcement portions may be positioned such that they are generallyconsistent with the depressions 6 formed in the table top. For example,the reinforcement portions may be located so that they are aligned withthe pattern of depressions 6 to create a table top with more uniformcharacteristics. This may allow a table top 2 to be constructed withgenerally consistent strength and structural integrity. For example, oneor more depressions 6 may be formed in the lower surface of the tabletop 2 and may extend towards and/or contact the upper surface of thetable top. Also, one or more depressions 6 may be formed in the innersurface of the corner and may extend towards and/or contact the outersurface of the corner. Thus, if desired, one or more depressions 6 maybe formed in the inner surface of a corner, the lower surface of thetable top, or both. Advantageously, the corners of the table top 2 mayhave the same design or configuration, but the corners may have adifferent design or configuration depending, for example, upon theintended use of the table top. Of course, the reinforcement portionsneed not be generally consistent with the depressions 6.

Further, if desired, the reinforcement portions may be spaced closertogether in the corners than along the edges to further increase thestrength and structural integrity of the table top 2. The reinforcementportions may be particularly advantageous in the corners because thecorners may be more likely to be damaged since the corners may have lessstrength than the edges of a table top.

In order to increase the strength and structural integrity of thecorners, the radius of the corners may be increased because the strengthand structural integrity of the corners may increase with a largerradius of curvature. Preferably, the radius of curvature of the innersurface of the corner is increased and one or more reinforcementportions are formed in the corner for added strength. It will beappreciated that reinforcement portions may also be formed on the outersurfaces of the corners or other portions of the table top.

Advantageously, the reinforcement portions may be integrally formed inthe table top 2 as part of a unitary, one-piece structure and thesefeatures may be formed during the blow-molding process. Because thesefeatures may be integrally formed in the table top, that may expeditethe manufacturing process and may provide a more strong and/or resilienttable top. These features, however, do not have to be integrally formedin the table top and they could be attached to the table top by anysuitable methods or devices.

As shown in FIG. 2, the lip 4 extends downwardly beyond the lowersurface 16 of the table top 2 and the lip is aligned with or forms partof the edge 18 of the table top 2. It will be appreciated that the lip 4may also be spaced inwardly from the edge 18 of the table top 2, ifdesired.

The lip 4 also includes an inner surface 20 with one or morereinforcement portions that may be sized and configured to increase thestrength, rigidity, and/or flexibility of the lip. The reinforcementportions may include an inwardly extending portion, such as a channel,that has a generally tapered or otherwise narrowing shape. For example,the channel may have a width of about 0.8 inches proximate to or at alower surface of the lip that tapers or otherwise narrows to a width ofabout 0.3 inches proximate to or at a lower surface of the table top.Accordingly, the channel may taper to about thirty percent to aboutfifty percent of its original width, but the channel could have a largeror smaller taper. Of course, the channel need not be tapered and itcould have any other suitable sizes, shapes and configurationsdepending, for example, upon the intended purpose of the table top. Asillustrated in FIG. 2, one or more depressions may be disposed withinthe reinforcing portions. For example, a plurality of depressions 26 maybe disposed within the channel 22 and in the lower surface 24 of thetable top 2. Of course the depressions 26 may be disposed in othersuitable locations.

As shown in FIG. 2, the inner surface 20 of the lip 4 may includereinforcement portions with one or more outwardly extending portions 28that are sized and configured to increase the strength, rigidity and/orflexibility of the lip 4. If desired, the reinforcement portions mayinclude one or more ribs, which may increase the wall thickness andincrease the strength, rigidity and/or flexibility of the lip 4.

As shown in FIG. 2, the table top 2 may include a corner with an innersurface 30 and a lower surface 32. As shown, one or more reinforcementportions, such as inwardly extending grooves or channels 34, 36 and 38may at least partially be disposed within the inner surface 30 of thecorner. If desired, the inwardly extending portions could be at leastpartially disposed within the inner surface 30 and/or the lower surface32. Also, if desired, the inwardly extending portions may have agenerally tapered or otherwise narrowing shape. For example, thechannels 34, 36 and 38 may have a width of about 0.6 inches at an end ofthe channel proximate to or at the inner surface 30 of the corner thattapers or otherwise narrows to a width of about 0.3 inches at an end ofthe channel proximate to or at the surface 40 of the table top 2.Accordingly, the channel may taper to about forty percent to about sixtypercent of its width, but the channel could be tapered any suitableamount. Of course, the channel need not be tapered and could have anyother suitable size, shape, or configuration depending, for example,upon the size and/or configuration of the table top 2.

As shown in FIG. 2, the lip 4 and/or corners may include a plurality ofreinforcing portions including two outer reinforcing portions having afirst length, such as the channels 34 and 38, and a center reinforcingportion having a different length, such as the channel 36. For example,the channels 34 and 38 have a length of about 1.5 inches along the lowersurface of the table top 2, and the channel 36 has a length of about 2.5inches along the lower surface of the table top 2. Accordingly, theouter reinforcing portions may have a length along the lower surface ofthe table top 2 that is about fifty percent to about seventy percent ofthe length of the inner reinforcing portion. Of course, the reinforcingportions may have other dimensions, and the reinforcing portions mayhave the same or different dimensions.

As shown in FIG. 2, one or more depressions may be at least partiallydisposed within one or more reinforcing portions formed in the innersurface 30 of the corner and/or in the lower surface 16 of the table top2. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, all or at least a portion of thedepressions 42 and 48 may be disposed within the channel 34; all or atleast a portion of the depressions 44, 50 and 52 may be disposed withinthe channel 36; and all or at least a portion of the depressions 46 and54 may be disposed within the channel 38. One or more of the depressionsthat are at least partially formed on the inner surface 30 of thecorner, such as depressions 42, 44 and 46, may at least partially extendtoward and contact or otherwise engage an opposing surface, such as theouter edge 18 of the table top 2. Also, one or more depressions of thedepressions that are at least partially formed on the lower surface 16of the table top 2, such as depressions 48, 50, 52 and 54, may at leastpartially extend toward and contact or otherwise engage an opposingsurface, such as an upper surface of the table top 2. If desired, moreor fewer depressions may be formed in the channels 34, 36, and 38, butthe depressions need not be formed in any channel and may be spacedapart from the channels.

One or more reinforcing portions may be formed on an inner surface of acorner, an inner surface of a lip, and/or a lower surface of a table topand may also be positioned such that they are generally consistent withor otherwise generally aligned with one or more depressions. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 2, the channel 34 is generally aligned withthe depression 42 and the depression 48. Also, the channel 36 isgenerally aligned with the depression 44, the depression 50, and thedepression 52; and the channel 38 is generally aligned with thedepression 46 and the depression 54. Of course, the reinforcing portionsdo not have to be generally consistent with or otherwise generallyaligned with any depressions.

As shown in FIG. 2, the distance between an inner surface and an outersurface of a corner may be generally less than the distance between aninner surface and an outer surface of a portion of the lip 4 proximate aside of the table top 2. For example, a portion of the lip 4 proximate acorner may be generally thinner than a portion of the lip proximate aside of the table top 2 and spaced from the corner, and the opposingportions 8 and 12 and the opposing portions 10 and 14 are generallythicker than the corners. Advantageously, the generally thinner cornermay provide a more strong, flexible and/or resilient corner. In oneembodiment, a portion of the lip 4 proximate a corner may be about 0.25inches thick, an outwardly extending portion 28 may be about 1.3 inchesthick, and an inwardly extending portion 22 may be about 1 inch thick.In one embodiment, the average distance between an inner surface and anouter surface of a corner may be about 20 percent to about 30 percent ofthe average distance between an inner surface and an outer surface ofthe lip 4 proximate a side of the table top 2. It will be appreciatedthat corners and/or portions of the lip 4 may have any other suitabledimensions or attributes. Further, corners and/or portions of the lip 4may have the same or different thicknesses, shapes, and/orconfigurations as each other.

As shown in FIG. 3, one or more reinforcing portions, such as channels56, 58, and 60, may be formed on an inner surface of a corner, an innersurface of a lip, and/or a lower surface of a table top; and some or allof the reinforcing portions may have the same or different lengths. Forexample, the channel 56 may have a length of about 1.5 inches along thelower surface of the table top 2, the channel 58 may have a length ofabout 1 inch along the lower surface of the table top 2, and the channel60 may have a length of about 2.5 inches along the lower surface of thetable top 2. Thus, a center reinforcing portion may be shorter than twoouter reinforcing portions, and one reinforcing portion may be shorterthan the other outer channel reinforcing portion. For example, the outerchannel 56 may have a length along the lower surface of the table top 2that is about fifty-five percent to sixty-five percent of the length ofthe outer channel 60 along the lower surface of the table top 2, and thecenter channel 58 may have a length along the lower surface of the tabletop 2 that is about forty-five percent to fifty-five percent of thelength of the outer channel 60 along the lower surface of the table top2. Also, one or more depressions may be at least partially disposedwithin the channels 56, 58, and 60. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, allor at least a portion of depressions 62 and 64 may be disposed withinthe channel 56; all or at least a portion of depressions 66 and 68 maybe disposed within the channel 58; and all or at least a portion ofdepressions 70, 72, and 74 may be disposed within the channel 60. Itwill be appreciated that the channels 56, 58, and 60 may have larger orsmaller dimensions, and more, fewer, or no depressions may be disposedwithin the channels.

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the lip 4 and corners of the table top 2 arepreferably generally perpendicular to the upper surface of the tabletop, and the outer surfaces of the lip 4 and the corners of the tabletop 2 include one or more ridges, steps, edges, and the like. However,the outer surfaces of the lip 4 and the corners may have any othersuitable shape and/or configuration.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 8, an attachment assembly 82 may be integrallyformed in a lower surface of a table top 80 as part of a unitary,one-piece structure using, for example a blow-molding process. Theattachment assembly 82 may be advantageously sized and configured tosecurely receive a clip, a post, a portion of a table frame, or the likeusing a snap fit, an interference fit, a friction fit, or the like. Forexample, the attachment assembly 82 may include one or more engagementmembers, such as engagement members 84, 86, 88 and 90, sized andconfigured to resiliently deform or otherwise move to securely receive aclip, a post, a portion of a table frame, or the like. The attachmentassembly 82 preferably includes one or more depressions, which maycontact, engage, and/or be disposed proximate to the engagement members84, 86, 88 and 90. In one embodiment, the attachment assembly 82 mayinclude a pair of depressions 92 and 94 that are proximate opposingsides of the attachment assembly 82 and are generally aligned.Advantageously, one or more pairs of depressions may be sized andconfigured to provide stability along at least one axis of theattachment assembly 82, to strengthen the table top 80, and to reducedamage to the table top 80 when attaching and/or detaching a clip, apost, a portion of a table frame, or the like to the attachment assembly82.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 9, another attachment assembly 96 may beintegrally formed in a lower surface of the table top 80 as part of aunitary, one-piece structure using, for example a blow-molding process.The attachment assembly 96 may be advantageously sized and configured tosecurely receive a clip, a post, a portion of a table frame, or the likeusing a snap fit, an interference fit, a friction fit, or the like. Theattachment assembly 96 may include one or more engagement members 98 and100 sized and configured to deform or otherwise move to securely receivea clip, a post, a portion of a table frame, or the like. The attachmentassembly 96 preferably includes depressions 100, 102, 104, 106, 108,110, and 112, which may contact, engage, and/or be disposed proximate tothe engagement members 98 and 100. The attachment assembly 96 mayinclude one or more pairs of depressions that are proximate opposingsides of the attachment assembly 96 and generally aligned.Advantageously, one or more pairs of depressions may be sized andconfigured to provide stability along one axis, and one or more pairs ofdepressions may be sized and configured to provide stability along asecond axis, generally perpendicular to the first axis. Also, one ormore depressions, such as the depression 110, may be disposed proximatethe center of the attachment assembly 96. Also, the depressions may beadvantageously sized and configured to strengthen the table top 80, andto reduce damage to the table top 80 when attaching and/or detaching aclip, a post, a portion of a table frame, or the like to the attachmentassembly 96.

As illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, the attachment assemblies 82 and 96 mayhelp the table top 80 to be quickly and easily attached to and/ordetached from a clip, a post, a portion of a table frame, or the like.As shown, the attachment assemblies 82 and 96 may include one or moredepressions, which may extend toward and/or contact or otherwise engagean opposing surface, such as the upper surface of the table top 80. Thedepressions need not contact or otherwise engage an opposing surface andmay be spaced from an opposing surface.

As shown in FIG. 6, some or all of the corners of a table top (such as,the table top 80 in FIG. 6) may have the same or different designsand/or configurations. For example, the corners may include threechannels with two outer channels that are about the same length and aninner channel that is longer than the outer channels. The outer channelsmay include a plurality of depressions that are formed in the bottomsurface of the channels with one depression being formed adjacent orproximate the inner surface of the corner and another depression beingformed away from the inner surface of the corner and/or at or near theother end of the channel. The inner channel may include a plurality ofdepressions, including one depression formed adjacent or proximate theinner surface of the corner, another depression formed near the middleof the channel, and another depression formed away from the innersurface of the corner and/or at or near the other end of the channel.One skilled in the art will appreciate that the corners may include anysuitable other combination of channels and depressions in any desiredconfiguration.

As shown in FIGS. 6, 10, 11 and 12, the channels 114, 116, 118, 120, and122 may extend generally from the lower surface of the table top to theupper surface of the table top, but the channels preferably do not touchor contact the upper surface of the table top. Of course, all or atleast a portion of the channels 114, 116, 118, 120, and 122 could touchor contact the upper surface of the table top 80, if desired. One ormore depressions, such as depressions 124, 126, 128, 130, 132, and 134,may be formed in the channels 114, 116, 118, 120, and 122. Thedepressions 124, 126, 128, 130, 132, and 134 may contact or engage theinner portion of the upper surface of the table top, or the depressions124, 126, 128, 130, 132, and 134 may be spaced apart from the innerportion of the upper surface of the table top. In addition, thedepressions 136, 138, and 140 may be sized and configured to extendtowards the outer surface or wall of the corner and/or to contact orengage the inner portion of the outer surface or wall of the corner; butthe depressions 136, 138, and 140 may be spaced apart from the innerportion of the outer surface or wall of the corner. Of course, ifdesired, these depressions may at least partially contact, engage,and/or extend toward both of—or neither of—the upper surface of thetable top and the outer surface or wall of the corner. Further, thesedepressions may be spaced apart from both of—or neither of—the uppersurface of the table top and the outer surface or wall of the corner.

Advantageously, the reinforcing portions and/or depressions formed inthe lip and/or the corners of table tops, such as the table tops 2 and80, may increase the strength and/or impact resistance of the corner.For example, the side walls and lower surfaces of the channels may helpincrease the strength and/or impact resistance of the corner. The sidewalls and lower surfaces of the depressions may also help increase thestrength and/or impact resistance of the corner. The reinforcingportions and/or depressions may also facilitate the corners of the tabletop absorbing a larger amount of force or impacts. Significantly, thismay help prevent the table top from being damaged if it is dropped oraccidentally struck with another object. The reinforcing portions and/ordepressions may also increase the resiliency of the table top. Inparticular, if a force is applied to a corner of the table top, aportion of the corner may deform or bend and, once the force is removed,the corner may return to its original configuration. Thus, the table topmay be able to absorb a larger force because the corner may be flexibleand elastically deform when a force is applied and then mechanicallyreturn to its original position. Thus, the reinforcing portions and/ordepressions may help prevent damage to the corners of the table top.Significantly, because a table top may be difficult to repair orreplace, the stronger corners may provide a considerably improved tabletop.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 10-11, the table top 80 may include a lip thatmay include an interior wall or portion, a spaced apart exterior wall orportion and a hollow portion that may be at least partially disposedbetween the interior and exterior portions. In addition, as shown inFIGS. 10-11, the lip may include a protrusion, which may have an atleast substantially solid construction and may be disposed adjacent theinterior portion, the exterior portion and/or the hollow portion of thelip. As shown in FIG. 6, the interior portion, the exterior portion, thehollow portion and the substantially solid protrusion may form part of acorner of the table top 80. As shown in FIGS. 10-11, the table top 80may also include an upper wall or portion and a spaced apart lower wallor portion and a hollow portion that may be at least partially disposedbetween the upper and lower portions. As shown in FIG. 10-11, the upperportion, the lower portion, the interior portion, the exterior portion,the hollow portions and/or the substantially solid protrusion may beintegrally formed as part of a unitary, one-piece structure using, forexample, the blow-molding process discussed above.

The thickness of the substantially solid protrusion may be significantlylarger than the thickness of the interior portion of the lip, thethickness of the exterior portion of the lip, the thickness of the upperportion of the table top and/or the thickness of the lower portion ofthe table top. For example, as shown in FIGS. 10-11, the thickness ofthe substantially solid protrusion may be at least about two times thethickness of the interior portion of the lip; at least about two timesthe thickness of the exterior portion of the lip; at least about twotimes the thickness of the upper portion of the table top; and/or atleast about two times the thickness of the lower portion of the tabletop. Also, as shown in FIGS. 10-11, the thickness of the substantiallysolid protrusion may be at least about the combined thicknesses of theinterior and exterior portions of the lip and/or at least about thecombined thicknesses of the upper and lower portions of the table top.

In addition, the height of the substantially solid protrusion may besignificantly larger than the thickness of the interior portion of thelip, the thickness of the exterior portion of the lip, the thickness ofthe upper portion of the table top and/or the thickness of the lowerportion of the table top. For example, as shown in FIGS. 10-11, theheight of the substantially solid protrusion may be at least about twoor three times the thickness of the interior portion of the lip; atleast about two or three times the thickness of the exterior portion ofthe lip; at least about two or three times the thickness of the upperportion of the table top; and/or at least about two or three times thethickness of the lower portion of the table top. Also, as shown in FIGS.10-11, the height of the substantially solid protrusion may be at leastabout the combined thicknesses of the interior and exterior portions ofthe lip and/or at least about the combined thicknesses of the upper andlower portions of the table top.

Applicants have conducted impact tests on table tops constructed withreinforcing portions and depressions, such as those described above. Thetests determined that table tops dropped on a corner with thereinforcing portions and depressions was not damaged or had minimaldamage when dropped from a height of thirty inches. In particular, thecorner was not damaged at all or the corner was deformed but itself-recovered so that there was no or minimal damage. In contrast,conventional table tops constructed from blow-molded plastic weretypically damaged from dropped from a height of eighteen inches. Thus,the reinforcing portions and/or depressions provided a significantincrease in strength and/or impact resistance for the corner of a tabletop.

As shown in FIG. 13A-13C, a table top 150 may include a lip having endportions 152 and 154, which may join two corners. The end portions 153and 154 have substantially the same thickness as the corners that theend portions join, which thickness is substantially thinner than one ormore other portions of the table top 180, such as the portions 156 andthe portions 158. It will be appreciated that the various portions ofthe lip of the table top 150 may have any other dimensions, includingthe same dimensions or different dimensions, if desired.

The table top 150 includes a reinforcing portion comprising a ridge orraised portion 160, which may be disposed along all or a portion of oneor more corners and/or along all or a portion of the end portion 154 ofthe table top 150. The table top 150 also includes a pair of reinforcingportions comprising channels 162 and 164. The channel 162 includes aplurality of depressions, including a two depressions spaced apart fromthe inner surface of the corner and a depression disposed proximate theinner surface of the corner. The channel 164 includes a plurality ofdepressions, including five depressions spaced apart from the innersurface of the corner and a depression disposed proximate the innersurface of the corner.

As shown in FIGS. 14A-14C, a table top 170 may include a reinforcingmember comprising a channel or groove 172, which may be disposed alongall or a portion of the length of one or more corners and/or along allor a portion of the length of an end portion 174. Also, a plurality ofdepressions 176 may be at least partially disposed within the channel172. As shown in FIGS. 14A-14C, the table top 170 may also include thereinforcing portion 178, which illustrates that the reinforcing portionsneed not have any portion of a depression disposed within thereinforcing portions.

As shown in FIGS. 15A-15C, a table top 190 may include a reinforcingmember comprising a ridge or raised portion 192, which may be disposedalong all or a portion of the length of one or more corners and/or alongall or a portion of the length of an end portion end portion 194. Theridge 192 may be disposed along less than half of the end portion 194,if desired. One or more depressions 196 may be disposed within, contact,or otherwise intersect at least a portion of the ridge 192. The tabletop 190 may also include a reinforcing member comprising a channel 198,which may be disposed proximate to and/or along all or a portion of oneor more corners and/or may be disposed proximate to and/or along all ora portion of an end portion. One or more depressions 200, 202 and 204may be disposed within, contact, or otherwise intersect at least aportion of the channel 198.

As shown in FIG. 16D, a corner of the table top 220 may include one ormore reinforcing portions comprising one or more outwardly extendingportions 222, 224, 226, and 228 and/or one or more inwardly extendingportions 230, 232, and 234. The outwardly extending portions 224 and 226may have a thickness of about 0.5 inches proximate their respectivecenters and the outwardly extending portions 222 and 228 may have athickness of about 0.45 inches proximate their respective centers. Thus,the corner of the table top 220 may include one or more outwardlyextending portions positioned proximate the center of the corner and mayinclude one or more outwardly extending portions spaced apart from thecenter of the corner, and the outwardly extending portions positionedproximate the center of the corner may be thicker than the outwardlyextending portions spaced apart from the center of the corner. Also, theinwardly extending portion 232 may have a thickness of about 0.3 inchesproximate its center, and the inwardly extending portions 230 and 234may have a thickness of about 0.4 inches proximate their respectivecenters. Thus, the corner of a table top 220 may include one or moreinwardly extending portions positioned proximate the center of thecorner and may include one or more inwardly extending portions spacedapart from the center of the corner, and the inwardly extending portionspositioned proximate the center of the corner may be thinner than theinwardly extending portions spaced apart from the center of the corner.Of course, the inwardly and/or outwardly extending portions of thecorner shown in FIG. 16D may be disposed in any other suitable locationand may have any other suitable dimensions or relative sizes.

As shown in FIG. 16D, the one or more of the outwardly extendingportions 222, 224, 226, and 228 may contact, engage, abut, or otherwisebe disposed proximate to a channel or groove 236 disposed proximate theintersection of the lower surface of the table and the inner surface ofthe corner. Also, one or more of the inwardly extending portions 230,232, and 234 may be spaced apart from the channel 236. Also, one or moredepressions 238 at least partially formed on a lower surface of thetable top 220 may contact, engage, abut, be disposed proximate to, orintersect the channel 236.

As shown in FIG. 16E, a corner of the table top 220 may a reinforcingportion comprising a channel or groove 250. One or more depressions maybe formed within the channel 250. A depression 252 may be formed on alower surface of the table top 220, proximate an inner surface (such as,an inner surface 254) of a corner, and/or proximate the channel 250.Also, a depression 256 may be formed on the lower surface of the tabletop 220, proximate an inner surface of the corner, and/or spaced fromthe channel 250.

One skilled in the art will also appreciate that although the exemplaryembodiments discussed above have been described with respect to tabletops, these aspects and features may also be used in connection withother types of furniture such as chairs, stools, footstools, or anyother suitable type of devices, fixtures, or structures.

Although this invention has been described in terms of certain preferredembodiments, other embodiments apparent to those of ordinary skill inthe art are also within the scope of this invention. Accordingly, thescope of the invention is intended to be defined only by the claimswhich follow.

1. A table top constructed from blow-molded plastic, the table top comprising: an upper surface; a lower surface; a corner including an inner wall, an outer wall and a hollow interior portion disposed between at least a portion of the inner wall and the outer wall, the inner wall, the outer wall and the hollow interior portion being integrally formed during the blow-molding process as part of a unitary, one-piece structure; a lip disposed along a side of the table top, the lip including an inner wall, an outer wall and a hollow interior portion disposed between at least a portion of the inner wall and the outer wall, the inner wall, the outer wall and the hollow interior portion being integrally formed during the blow-molding process as part of a unitary, one-piece structure; a first distance measured between the inner wall of the corner and the outer wall of the corner; and a second distance measured between the inner wall of the lip and the outer wall of the lip, the first distance being generally equal to or less than thirty percent of the second distance.
 2. The table top as in claim 1, wherein the first distance is generally equal to or less than twenty percent of the second distance.
 3. The table top as in claim 1, wherein the first distance is about 0.25 inches; and wherein the second distance is about one inch so that the first distance is generally equal to about twenty-five percent of the second distance.
 4. The table top as in claim 1, wherein the first distance is a width of the corner and is generally equal to the average distance between the inner wall and the outer wall of the corner; and wherein the second distance is a width of the lip and is generally equal to the average distance between the inner wall and the outer wall of the lip.
 5. The table top as in claim 1, further comprising: one or more reinforcement portions disposed in the lip; one or more depressions at least substantially disposed in the reinforcement portions in the lip; one or more reinforcement portions disposed in the corner; and one or more depressions at least substantially disposed in the reinforcement portions in the corner.
 6. The table top as in claim 5, wherein the reinforcement portions in the corner are more closely spaced than the reinforcement portions in the lip.
 7. The table top as in claim 5, wherein the reinforcement portions in the lip include a first portion disposed in the lip and a second portion disposed in the lower surface of the table top; and wherein the reinforcement portions in the corner include a first portion disposed in the corner and a second portion disposed in the lower surface of the table top.
 8. The table top as in claim 7, wherein at least one depression is disposed in the first portion and at least one depression is disposed in the second portion of the reinforcement portion in the lip.
 9. The table top as in claim 5, wherein the depressions allow the table top to be constructed with a thinner outer wall of the corner.
 10. A table top constructed from blow-molded plastic, the table top comprising: a lower surface; a corner including an inner wall, an outer wall and a hollow interior portion disposed between at least a portion of the inner wall and the outer wall, the inner wall, the outer wall and the hollow interior portion being integrally formed during the blow-molding process as part of a unitary, one-piece structure; a corner reinforcing portion including a first portion disposed in the corner and a second portion disposed in the lower surface; and one or more depressions at least substantially disposed in the corner reinforcing portion.
 11. The table top as in claim 10, wherein at least one depression of the one or more depressions is disposed in the first portion of the corner reinforcing portion.
 12. The table top as in claim 10, wherein at least one depression of the one or more depressions is disposed in the second portion of the corner reinforcing portion.
 13. The table top as in claim 10, wherein a first depression is disposed in the first portion of the corner reinforcing portion; and wherein a second depression is disposed in the second portion of the corner reinforcing portion.
 14. The table top as in claim 10, further comprising: a lip disposed along a side of the table top, the lip including an inner wall, an outer wall and a hollow interior portion disposed between at least a portion of the inner wall and the outer wall, the inner wall, the outer wall and the hollow interior portion being integrally formed during the blow-molding process as part of a unitary, one-piece structure; a lip reinforcing portion including a first portion disposed in the lip and a second portion disposed in the lower surface; and one or more depressions at least substantially disposed in the lip reinforcing portion.
 15. The table top as in claim 14, wherein at least one depression is disposed in the second portion of the lip reinforcing portion.
 16. The table top as in claim 14, wherein the depressions in the lip reinforcing portion have an elongated body that is disposed generally perpendicular to the lip.
 17. The table top as in claim 10, wherein the depressions in the corner reinforcing portion have an elongated body that is disposed generally parallel to the inner wall of the lip.
 18. A table top constructed from blow-molded plastic, the table top comprising: a lower surface; a corner including an inner wall, an outer wall and a lower protrusion that are integrally formed during the blow-molding process as part of a unitary, one-piece structure, the lower protrusion having a substantially solid construction that is formed by the direct connection of the inner wall and the outer wall; a corner reinforcing portion including a first portion disposed in the corner and a second portion disposed in the lower surface; and one or more depressions at least substantially disposed in the corner reinforcing portion.
 19. The table top as in claim 18, wherein a first depression is disposed in the first portion of the corner reinforcing portion; and wherein a second depression is disposed in the second portion of the corner reinforcing portion.
 20. The table top as in claim 18, wherein the protrusion has a thickness generally equal to a thickness of the inner wall of the corner and the outer wall of the corner; and wherein the protrusion has a height at least about two times a thickness of the inner wall of the corner.
 21. The table top as in claim 1, further comprising one or more reinforcement portions at least partially disposed in the inner wall of the corner and the lower surface of the table top.
 22. The table top as in claim 21, further comprising one or more depressions at least partially disposed in the reinforcement portions in the inner wall of the corner.
 23. The table top as in claim 21, further comprising one or more depressions at least partially disposed in the reinforcement portions in the lower surface of the table top.
 24. The table top as in claim 21, wherein the reinforcement portions decrease in width along a length.
 25. The table top as in claim 1, further comprising at least two reinforcement portions, a first reinforcement portion having a first length and a second reinforcement portion having a second length that is generally equal to or less than seventy percent of the first length. 